Hierarchy classification:

1. top of the aat hierarchies
2. Objects Facet
3. Visual and Verbal Communication (hierarchy name)
4. Information Forms (hierarchy name)
5. information forms (objects)
6. information artifacts
7. [information artifacts by function]
8. identifying artifacts
9. badges
10. messenger's badges

Anotations

Scope note:

Originally a type of messenger's badge that was an attribute of a messenger at Dutch government institutions that was intended to collect posted messages. Worn on the belt these appeared as a shield bearing the coat of arms of the body representing the messenger. These imparted privileges to the bearer, such as free transport. Over time, these evolved into often elaborately decorated badges worn by representatives of city governments.